Introduction
14 days | Rio de Janeiro to Buenos AiresTrip Style: Family
Before you decided to start a family, you backpacked and slept in hammocks by the sea. Now you want to share that spirit of adventure with the family. Keep it alive with authentic and educational trips that reflect what’s important to parents—short travel times and the safety of group travel.
Trip Type: Small Group
Group trips average about 12 travellers per departure, depending on the adventure. The maximum is usually no more than 16.
Service Level: Comfort
- All the adventure you want, with a softer landing
- Handpicked, character-rich accommodations with upgraded amenities services
- Upgraded and private transport, including flights to maximize time
- More included meals, activities and transfers
Physical Grading: 4
You might encounter a few high-altitude hikes or other more strenuous activities. Pro tip: Put down that pastry, buster.
Itinerary
Day 1 Rio de Janeiro
Day 2 Rio de Janeiro (1B)
In the afternoon, we have the time to learn more about the Brazilian martial art, capoeira. Originally developed by slaves, but disguised as a dance to avoid the attentions of their masters, we will learn the basic techniques of the artform as well as see the experts perform a display for us.
Day 3 Ilha Grande (1B, 1D)
Enjoy free time this afternoon to soak up the sun, snorkel, hike and cruise to various beaches, not to mention feasting on fresh seafood and sipping caipirinhas in the plaza in the evenings (adults only!).
Approximate Distance: 100 km + 90 minutes by boat
Estimated Travel Time: 4 hours and 30 minutes
Day 4 Ilha Grande (1B)
Day 5 Iguassu Falls (1B)
The name Iguassu comes from the Guarani words for 'big water', an apt name as you will see the endless masses of water rush over the falls and tumble to the ground below. This evening, after a visit to the Falls, we can try a delicious Brazilian churrascaria.
Day 6 Iguassu Falls (1B)
We visit the Brazilian side of the Falls today. This gives a chance to get up close to the Falls, and the spectacular Garganta del Diablo falls. We visit the bird park here in the afternoon, where we get to meet a riot of coulour as macaws, ibis and many other birds live here.
Day 7 Iguassu Falls (1B)
We have the rest of the day free to explore Puerto Iguazu now that we are in Argentina.
Day 8 Buenos Aires (1B)
Day 9-11 Estancia (1B, 1L, 1D)
We spend the next three days at the Estancia getting into rural life. There is a variety of activities available to us while we are here. Learn about the historical roots of the region, participate in the farming, go for a hike or horseback ride, or sit back and sip on the wines (adults only) of the region as you take in local Uruguayan life.
We could take a walk along the trails around the estancia, or for something a bit different, visit the cheese factory to see how the local produce is made. It's a great opportunity for the kids to try something a bit different, perhaps a first time trying out fishing.
In the evenings while we are here, we will be treated to an asado, the traditional method of cooking meat on the barbecue, and a delicious way to end the day
Day 12 Buenos Aires (1B)
Day 13 Buenos Aires (1B, 1D)
The most famous neighbourhood in Buenos Aires is the colourful area of La Boca. Houses are painted in a variety of colours and there is always something happening down in the streets. This is also home to the city and arguably Argentina's most famous football team, Boca Juniors.
In the evening we can enjoy one of Argentina's most famous cultural exports, tango. We visit a tango show, where we enjoy dinner and even the chance to try out some steps and learn some moves to take home with you.
Day 14 Buenos Aires (1B)
Dossier Disclaimer
The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.
VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.
Itinerary Disclaimer
While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.
Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.
Your Fellow Travellers
As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of traveling in a group. Your fellow travellers will probably come from all corners of the world and are likely to be of a variety of ages too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group. Patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don't keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on your part.
About Accommodation
Accommodation for family trips has been chosen to give the best location and facilities for your family. They may vary depending on the location and destination, but designed to give the most comfortable experience while travelling.
You and your family will generally be sharing rooms on a twin or triple share basis. These rooms will be either adjoining or located at close proximity to each other.
Families will be roomed together and not with other families everywhere we stay. If you have any special hotel requests at the time of booking, let us know and we will do what we can to accommodate them.
Checklist
- Passport (with photocopies)
- Travel insurance (with photocopies)
- Airline tickets (with photocopies)
- USD cash and travellers cheques
- Credit or debit card (see personal spending money)
- G Adventures vouchers and trip details
- Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
- Camera and film
- Reading/writing material
- Binoculars
- Cover for backpacks
- Pocket knife
- Concealable money belt
- Fleece top
- Windproof/waterproof jacket
- Small towel and swim wear
- 4 shirts/t-shirts
- Sun hat
- 1 pair of shorts
- 2 pairs of long trousers
- 1 pair hiking pants/track pants
- Hiking boots/ sturdy walking shoes
- Sport sandals
- Sunblock
- Sunglasses
- Toiletries (biodegradable)
- Watch or alarm clock
- Water bottle
- Flashlight
- First-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, Band Aids, anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, re-hydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may be taking).
Destination Guide
For practical information on weather, typical costs, visa information, special events and much more, our Destination Guide is the place to visit! This handy guide will tell you everything you need to know about everywhere we go! Head to www.gadventures.com/destination_guide for detailed information on the countries and cities we visit.
Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
Emergency Fund
Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!
Optional Activities
Rio de Janeiro:
Rio City Tour 150 BRL
Favela Tour 65 BRL
Football Game 90-110 BRL
Corcovado 44 BRL
Buenos Aires:
Tango Show 330 ARS
Tigre tour 175 ARS
Interactive Culinary Experience $65
Coastal train 16 USD
Teatro Colón 110 ARS
City tour $20-25
Fiesta Gaucha 350 ARS
Hop on Hop off Bus 70 ARS
Sugar loaf 53 BRL
Samba show 55+ USD
Ilha Grande:
Boat to Lopes Mendes beach 20 BRL
Surf Board Rental at Lopes Mendes 50 BRL
Guided walk to Pico do Papagagio 50 BRL
Safety and Security
Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewelery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it deemed necessary, due to safety concerns. Your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy and explore at your leisure. While your CEO will assist you with options available in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions.
Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards), have a balanced approach to safety. It is our policy not to allow our CEOs to make arrangements on your behalf for water based activities that are not accompanied by guide(s).
Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk. Read more about travel safety for ways to further enhance your personal safety while traveling.
A Couple of Rules
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our group leader has the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Responsible Travel
Being a responsible tour operator is at the heart of what G Adventures is all about. From the start, G Adventures has been committed to offering low-impact tours that benefit traveller and host alike. While our sustainable tourism policies are constantly evolving, our commitment to socially conscious, grassroots style travel has never changed. We work with local communities, businesses and individuals to develop sustainable tourism opportunities that help local economies while minimizing negative environmental and cultural impacts.
We would like to give you a couple of tips to start you thinking about traveling sustainably.
-Please bring rechargeable batteries, a battery charger (and plug adapter if necessary). Batteries are incredibly toxic and many places that we travel do not have proper disposal facilities. Rechargeables are best but if this is not possible we recommend that you bring any used batteries back home with you for proper disposal.
-Please ask before taking pictures. Just as you would not like to have a stranger come up to you and take a picture of you while sitting on your front porch either do the locals of the places that we visit. As you can imagine pictures of their children are also not appreciated.
For more information about our commitment to responsible travel, please visit the Sustainable Tourism section of the G Adventures website: www.gadventures.com
Planeterra-The G Adventures Foundation
Our commitment to responsible tourism inspired us to establish the Planeterra Foundation in 2003, a non-profit organization dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of people and communities around the world through support of local organizations and community projects in the places that we visit on our tours. G Adventures pays all of Planeterra's administration costs, which means that 100% of each donation goes directly to support our projects. We also match all donations up to $30,000 per year to double the impact! For more information about Planeterra and the projects we support, or to make a donation, please visit www.planeterra.org
Donate when you book your trip!
We offer travellers the opportunity to help us give back to the people and places visited on our tours by donating $3 at the time of booking. Of course any amount above $3 is welcome! 100% of these proceeds will go directly to support our Planeterra projects.
To participate in this program please indicate at the time of booking that you would like to donate to Planeterra, either by clicking the check box online, or by advising your G Adventures specialist or travel agent. (Note: Donation will be charged in the currency of your booking)
Feedback
After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that you'll receive a special discount code for free online prints and we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Please visit http://www.gadventures.com/evaluations
Newsletter
Our adventure travel e-newsletter is full of travel news, trip information, interesting stories and contests. To avoid missing out on special offers and updates from G Adventures, subscribe at www.gadventures.com/newsletters/
Stay current on how our company invests in our global community through our foundation – Planeterra. Sign up for Planeterra's monthly news to learn more about how to give back and support the people and places we love to visit.
Travel Forum - The Watering Hole
Be sure to stop by The Watering Hole, our adventure travel forum. If you're interested in meeting others booked on your upcoming trip, check out the Departure Lounge section of our forum and introduce yourself. Otherwise, just drop in at anytime to share some travel tips, ask questions, meet other travellers and quench your thirst for travel. Our forum is located at wateringhole.gadventures.com.
Keeping in Touch
If you need to be contacted while travelling we recommend that you set up an email address that can be accessed on the road, rather than relying on postal mail. Email cafes are becoming increasingly commonplace and cheap throughout the regions we visit, and have quickly become the preferred way for our leaders and travellers to stay in touch. If someone wishes to contact you in an emergency while you are on one of our trips we recommend that they contact your local booking agent, or refer to our Emergency Contact. We recommend that family and friends don't try to contact you through phoning hotels en route, as our hotels are subject to change, and our hotel receptions often don't have English speaking staff.
Minimum Age
Minimum age of 10 years for this trip. Please see the activities for any specific minimum age requirements.
This trip is recommended for children aged 12-14 years old.
